Native file
A native file is the default file format that a software application is designed to work with. The software uses the native file format to arrange data, i.e. to create, save or open files.
A 'foreign' file is one that is unrecognised by the application, and so will be unable to be displayed or, if it can be opened, may be displayed improperly due to the incorrect translation of data.
Many software developers create native file formats which can initially only be used by their own software. But if the software or application then becomes popular enough, other developers may release software that mimics or extends its functionality, they may also use this file format, and so it can become standard in that particular field of use.
Files can often be saved in formats other than their native formats. For example, the data in a Microsoft Word document file is customised and optimised for be read only in Microsoft Word, and have a .doc or .docx file extension. However, files can also be saved in formats such as .txt, .pdf, and .rtf.
In other cases, applications may be able to open files but not save them in the same format, due to licensing issues or perhaps due to the feature not yet being implemented in the application’s programming.
Similarly, CAD and 3D modeling software used by architects and designers can save and read files from other similar software or in standard file formats. For example, the native file format for AutoCAD is .dwg, but files can also be produced in an interchange file format DXF.
Proprietary file formats are those that are only readable by their own, and other permitted, software. The use of proprietary formats may hamper interoperability if project team members are using different types of software.
Non-proprietary file formats are vendor-neutral which means they can be read and edited by any suitable software. Often these are open source, with international collaboration for their development.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Do you take the lead in a circular construction economy?
Help us develop and expand this wiki as a resource for academia and industry alike.
Warm Homes Plan Workforce Taskforce
Risks of undermining UK’s energy transition due to lack of electrotechnical industry representation, says ECA.
Cost Optimal Domestic Electrification CODE
Modelling retrofits only on costs that directly impact the consumer: upfront cost of equipment, energy costs and maintenance costs.
The Warm Homes Plan details released
What's new and what is not, with industry reactions.
Could AI and VR cause an increase the value of heritage?
The Orange book: 2026 Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018
ECA welcomes IET and BSI content sign off.
How neural technologies could transform the design future
Enhancing legacy parametric engines, offering novel ways to explore solutions and generate geometry.
Key AI related terms to be aware of
With explanations from the UK government and other bodies.
From QS to further education teacher
Applying real world skills with the next generation.
A guide on how children can use LEGO to mirror real engineering processes.
Data infrastructure for next-generation materials science
Research Data Express to automate data processing and create AI-ready datasets for materials research.
Wired for the Future with ECA; powering skills and progress
ECA South Wales Business Day 2025, a day to remember.
AI for the conservation professional
A level of sophistication previously reserved for science fiction.
Biomass harvested in cycles of less than ten years.
An interview with the new CIAT President
Usman Yaqub BSc (Hons) PCIAT MFPWS.
Cost benefit model report of building safety regime in Wales
Proposed policy option costs for design and construction stage of the new building safety regime in Wales.
Do you receive our free biweekly newsletter?
If not you can sign up to receive it in your mailbox here.